Smart Energy Management in WBASNs: A Novel Protocol for Enhanced Efficiency

Abstract

In this study, we introduce a novel routing protocol for Wireless Body Area Sensor Networks (WBASNs) that prioritizes reliability, energy efficiency, and data transmission performance. Our approach employs a multi-hop network structure to optimize energy usage and extend the system's operational longevity. Conventional wired methods for monitoring bodily signals face challenges due to interference, making Wireless Body Area Sensor Networks (WBASNs) a more viable alternative for continuous healthcare monitoring. WBANs consist of compact, intelligent wireless sensors attached to the human body. These sensors can collect, process, and transmit crucial health parameters such as blood pressure, heart rate, body temperature, oxygen saturation, and electrocardiogram (ECG) and electroencephalogram (EEG) readings. Real-time data transmission allows healthcare providers and users to efficiently track patient health conditions. Additionally, we propose a cost function designed to determine the most optimal parent node or forwarder. The selected parent node is chosen based on its high residual energy and proximity to the sink, ensuring efficient data transfer. Maintaining energy balance within sensor nodes while ensuring reliable packet delivery to the sink enhances the stability of the network. The findings from our simulations suggest that the proposed protocol significantly extends the network stability period and prolongs the lifespan of individual nodes. This improvement ultimately increases packet transmission to the sink, which is essential for real-time patient monitoring.